Item Info
Source: Print and Picture Collection - Old Master Prints
Notes:
German printmaker and painter, 1471-1528;
Artist's monogram on lower right on stair arch;
Includes a certificate of authenticity;
Dürer was apprenticed to Michel Wohlgemut, the engraver of the Schatzbehalter, from 1486 until 1489. This print is believed to be a departure from the Gothic tradition of representation to the extent that it manifests accurate, one-point perspective and more natural treatments of the figures. Some scholars have described it as an architectural study to the extent that the artist focuses on the setting of the Nativity rather than upon the figures.
This print may have served as a New Year's greeting, since the first day of the year was celebrated on Christmas. A copy of this print may have been given to the Factor of Portugal as a gift with another print by the artist.
Bibliography:
Complete Engravings, Etchings, and Drypoints of Albrecht Dürer. Edited by Walter L. Strauss. 2d ed.. (New York : Dover Publications, c1973), p.84. (Central Stacks Reference 769.924 D933C)
Creation Year: ca. 1511
Image Dimensions Width: 12.9 cm
Creator Name: Dürer, Albrecht, 1471-1528 - Artist